Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 10:19 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
" In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely. "
Proverbs 10:19
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
17 He is in the way of life who heeds correction, but he who forsakes reproof leads others astray.
18 He who hides hatred has lying lips. He who utters a slander is a fool.
19 In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely.
20 The tongue of the righteous is like choice silver. The heart of the wicked is of little worth.
21 The lips of the righteous feed many, but the foolish die for lack of understanding.
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We are here warned about the right use of the tongue, a needed duty for every Christian. It is wise to say little, because “in many words sin is not absent,” or sin does not stop. People who talk a lot often say many wrong things too. In many words, there will always be many useless words, and we will soon have to answer for them.
Those who enjoy hearing themselves talk do not think about the repentance they are building up. Repentance will be needed, and in time it will come, wherever sin is not absent. So it is good to keep our mouths under control, like a horse under a bridle. The person who holds back his lips, checks himself often, suppresses what he has thought, and keeps back what might otherwise slip out, is a wise person. This shows wisdom, and it helps keep his own peace. What is said little can be corrected quickly (Amos 5:13; James 1:19).
From This Chapter
Proverbs 10:1
"The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son makes a glad father; but a foolish son brings grief to his mother."
Proverbs 10:2
"Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death."
Proverbs 10:3
"The LORD will not allow the soul of the righteous to go hungry, but he thrusts away the desire of the wicked."
Proverbs 10:4
"He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth."
Proverbs 10:5
"He who gathers in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during the harvest is a son who causes shame."
Proverbs 10:6
"Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked."
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